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Standing directly opposite Sa Seu, in an equally prominent position that actually obscures the cathedral’s main façade from all but close-up view, this ancient palace adds a lighter, more graceful note to Palma’s assemblage of civic buildings. Today, the palace is used for legislative and military headquarters, royal apartments and a museum.

An amalgam of Gothic and Moorish styles, the palace has a unique charm. Square, medieval towers have been topped with dainty Moorish-inspired crenellations. Refined windows and open, airy arcades also tell of an abiding Islamic influence.

Known variously as the Patio de Armas, the Patio de Honor and the Patio del Castillo, this central courtyard also evokes a Moorish feel, with its elegantly looping arches and central stand of palm trees. A fountain incorporates an Islamic lion from the 11th century.

The largest room on the ground floor takes its name, Salón de Consejos, from a meeting of ministers called here in 1983 by Juan Carlos I. There are 15th- and 16th-century Flemish tapestries, coats-of-arms and furniture.

The walls are graced with fine 17th-century Flemish genre paintings, some by a talented contemporary of Rubens. Note the fine Mudéjar wooden ceilings, by Moorish artisans.

Step onto the terrace for panoramic views. Then, back inside, peer into the remains of the Arab Baths. By means of mirrors, you can examine the three separate vaulted chambers below – one for hot, one for tepid and one for cold water.

Taking the Royal Staircase to the upper floor, you encounter the Queen’s Rooms, which contain fine antiques, oriental carpets, tapestries and paintings.

Here, you will find richly coloured oriental carpets, huge 16th- and 17th-century Flemish tapestries, bronze statuary, Neoclassical paintings and some spectacular Empire furniture with glittering ormolu fittings.

This remarkable room, noted for its huge pointed arches, is used for official receptions. Don’t miss the fine 17th-century Flemish tapestry on the back wall, depicting the Siege of Carthage.

The chapel’s delicately coloured altarpiece, created in Barcelona in 1358, is a visual sonnet in sky blue and gold.